Associated Technical College Los Angeles

Medical Assistant Program

Program Format and Curriculum

Associated Technical College Los Angeles (ATC) offers a 2-semester Medical Assistant program designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in healthcare. The program blends lectures, hands-on labs, and real-world application, providing a thorough foundation in both clinical and administrative medical skills. Students learn essential clinical tasks such as taking vital signs, performing injections, conducting EKGs, and drawing blood, alongside administrative tasks like medical billing, HIPAA compliance, and managing electronic medical records.

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Class Schedule and Learning Environment

Classes are offered in person, fostering a collaborative and immersive learning environment. Each semester includes specific units such as Medical Terminology, Anatomy, Physical Examination procedures, Pharmacology, and Pediatrics. This structured schedule ensures that students receive sequential, focused training in medical and office-related tasks. The in-person format allows students to practice skills directly in labs, working with instructors and peers to build confidence and proficiency in medical assistant tasks.

Admissions Requirements

ATC requires applicants to be high school graduates or hold a GED certificate. Those who do not meet these requirements may qualify by passing the ACCUPLACER Ability-to-Benefit test. Prospective students must meet with an admissions advisor, tour the facilities, and go through an orientation session as part of the admissions process. This step-by-step admissions support helps applicants understand the course offerings, financial aid options, and overall expectations for enrollment.

Financial Aid and Program Cost

The program costs $17,000, including tuition and supplies, split across two semesters. Financial aid options are available for those who qualify, with the financial aid team assisting students in navigating federal and institutional aid opportunities. Additionally, ATC offers payment planning resources to support students in managing tuition costs.

Accreditation and Recognition

ATC is licensed by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and accredited by national education bodies, ensuring a credible and respected certification for graduates. The program’s adherence to BPPE standards highlights its commitment to quality education in California’s healthcare training landscape.

Job Placement Support

ATC’s Job Placement Assistance Department is dedicated to helping students find employment. Beginning two weeks prior to graduation, students are encouraged to work with the placement team on resume preparation, interview techniques, and job search strategies. The department maintains connections with healthcare employers and provides ongoing placement support even after graduation, though job placement is not guaranteed. This resource ensures students have the necessary tools and connections to start their careers confidently.

What to Expect as a Student

The Medical Assistant program at ATC provides students with an interactive and supportive environment. Expert instructors cover a range of topics, including emergency procedures, patient communication, asepsis techniques, and healthcare insurance processes. The program places significant emphasis on patient care, preparing students for the interpersonal and technical demands of a medical assistant role.

ATC’s faculty members are experienced professionals in healthcare and medical administration, providing insights from real-world settings. They bring practical knowledge into the classroom, guiding students through complex medical procedures and best practices in patient care and office management.

Career Outlook After Graduation

Graduates can pursue various roles in healthcare settings, including doctors’ offices, outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, and home health agencies. With the comprehensive skills gained from ATC’s program, graduates are equipped to handle both front and back-office responsibilities, positioning them as valuable team members in a wide range of medical environments.